Author: bang7

The Silent Struggle of a Champion: Lewis Hamilton’s Haunting Spa Radio Message and Ferrari’s Internal Rift

Amidst the chaos of a wet and dramatic 2025 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, Lewis Hamilton once again captivated the world—not only with his remarkable driving but with an unexpected and shocking radio message directed at Ferrari engineer Ricardo Adami. The message was more than mere words; it was a window into a deeper, unsettling narrative within one of Formula 1’s most storied teams.

Hamilton’s race was a masterclass in perseverance. Starting from the pit lane due to pre-race penalties, he fought his way through the field, weaving through rivals with the sheer courage and skill that have defined his career. Crossing the finish line in seventh place, many would consider it a respectable recovery under tough conditions. But the real story wasn’t the result—it was the emotional undercurrent expressed in his radio communication and post-race demeanor.

The Weight Behind “I Gave It Everything”

Shortly after the race, Hamilton’s voice came over the team radio: “I gave it everything.” The phrase, calm and almost mundane on the surface, carried a profound weight for those who have followed his season. It was a simple admission of exhaustion but also a raw, emotional sign of frustration and isolation. For a seven-time world champion, used to being in command and feeling at one with his car and team, this was a signal that something was amiss.

After crossing the finish line, Hamilton’s tone was flat and distant: “Sorry about this weekend, guys. You lost some points.” There was no drama or overt anger—just a cold, cutting detachment. It was the voice of a champion who felt alone in his fight, a silent cry for connection that went unanswered. This moment marked a rupture between Hamilton and Ferrari, a team he once trusted implicitly.

The Struggle on Track: A Car Not Built for Him

Ferrari arrived at Spa with high hopes. New aerodynamic parts, including a floor mat upgrade, promised improved grip and stability—crucial in a race notorious for its challenging, slippery conditions. Rumors buzzed about Ferrari regaining their competitiveness. Yet from the very first practice laps, the promise began to unravel.

Hamilton’s car felt alien—oversteer struck unexpectedly, and the balance shifted erratically lap after lap. Worse yet, the team offered no clear guidance or solutions. Engineer Ricardo Adami’s communications came off as procedural and lifeless, lacking the usual warmth or urgency that a world champion would expect during such adversity. The silence was deafening.

In stark contrast, Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s other lead driver and a central figure in the team’s recent development, seemed to thrive. His radio exchanges were lively, strategic calls came promptly, and most importantly, Leclerc drove with unmistakable confidence. His car responded perfectly to every input, a reflection of a setup tailored around his style—a setup Hamilton struggled to adapt to.

The Invisible Wall: Trust, Communication, and Team Dynamics

Formula 1 isn’t just about raw speed—it’s a delicate dance of trust, communication, and synergy between driver and team. When that trust falters, everything else starts to crumble. Hamilton’s quiet frustration was rooted in this deeper issue: an emotional and professional disconnect with Ferrari’s system, which appeared increasingly designed around Leclerc.

This growing divide wasn’t just technical. It was personal and psychological. Hamilton’s engineer, Ricardo Adami, no longer seemed the ally he once was, but rather a detached administrator. The flat tone and lack of engagement over the radio symbolized a wider alienation. This silence, far from soothing, created a cold void where warmth, encouragement, and belief once lived.

Communication in Formula 1 is more than mere information exchange. It is the lifeblood of victory, shaping split-second decisions on tire strategy, overtakes, and pit stops. For Hamilton, this silence translated to isolation. The gap in communication reflected a rift in trust—and once that cracks, it’s hard to rebuild.

A Champion’s Quiet Warning

Typically, Hamilton is a figure of relentless leadership after races. He lingers with his crew, speaks extensively with the media, and rallies his team regardless of results. Yet at Spa, his behavior was starkly different. He silently walked away from the paddock, withdrawn and cold, devoid of his usual energy.

His understated words, “That’s all we had,” were more than a race summary. They encapsulated the whole season’s frustrations and hinted at something far graver. The phrase was a quiet but piercing warning: if Ferrari failed to address the widening gap between Hamilton and the team, they risked losing not just a driver, but a vital pillar of their future.

When Hamilton’s voice fades—not in volume but in passion and engagement—it signals a dangerous shift. It means hope is dimming.

Ferrari’s Dilemma: Two Voices, One Team

Ferrari’s current situation reveals a team caught between two narratives. Leclerc’s upbeat results and evident harmony with the car suggest a project on the rise. Yet Hamilton’s silence and visible struggle tell a different story—one of imbalance and growing internal tension.

In a team as large and complex as Ferrari, success hinges on balance. Two lead drivers of Hamilton’s and Leclerc’s caliber should both feel valued, heard, and supported. When one’s voice fades, it weakens the entire structure.

Hamilton isn’t publicly complaining or blaming. His frustration is internal, expressed through silence and subtle signs rather than explosive outbursts. This quiet discontent is often the most dangerous form—because it’s easy to ignore until it’s too late.

The Road Ahead: Will Ferrari Listen?

The question looming over Ferrari is whether they will recognize and respond to Hamilton’s warning before the cracks deepen. The trust of a world champion is not a commodity that can be purchased or fixed overnight with technical upgrades or better data. It is built on respect, mutual understanding, and genuine communication.

If Ferrari fails to re-engage Hamilton, they risk far more than championship points. They risk losing a driver whose experience, talent, and leadership have shaped modern Formula 1. More importantly, they risk fracturing the team spirit essential to any championship challenge.

Hamilton’s silence at Spa was louder than any radio shout. It was a call to action—a plea for Ferrari to re-examine their direction and address the human element behind the machines. Because when a champion starts to slip away, the consequences ripple far beyond the track.

Conclusion

Lewis Hamilton’s 2025 Belgian Grand Prix wasn’t just a race. It was a poignant chapter in an ongoing story of struggle, resilience, and an urgent need for change within Ferrari. His calm but piercing radio message reflected the emotional turmoil of a champion caught between battling rivals on track and wrestling with isolation off it.

As Formula 1 fans, we watch eagerly not just for the speed and spectacle, but for the human drama unfolding behind the scenes. Hamilton’s journey at Spa is a reminder that in racing, as in life, trust and communication are as vital as horsepower and precision.

Will Ferrari rise to the challenge and restore the bond with their champion? Or will Lewis Hamilton’s silence become the prelude to a final, quiet departure? Only time will tell.

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Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton endured a difficult weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix but still took the time to offer consolation to another of his Formula 1 rivals who was also struggling

Lewis Hamilton approached Kimi Antonelli after the Belgian Grand Prix(Image: Sky Sports)

Lewis Hamilton offered consolation to teenager Kimi Antonelli who continues to struggle in his debut Formula 1 season. The teenager began the year strongly but, since entering the European portion of the season, has looked a little lost and has struggled for form.

Antonelli has failed to score across any of the six race weekends held in Europe so far this year, and failed to finish four of them. The other two saw the 18-year-old finish 18th in Monaco and, on Sunday, 16th at the end of a torrid Belgian Grand Prix weekend.

Strangely, in the middle of those European races, Antonelli produced his best performance in F1 to date to secure his first podium, finishing third at the Canadian Grand Prix. But at Spa-Francorchamps after qualifying he was close to tears as he lamented his struggles.

“Since the European season, I’ve been struggling to find confidence with the car,” the teenager said. “I feel like I’ve done a backwards step. It’s just a difficult moment for me – I feel like I have no confidence on pushing. Yesterday, I tried to push a bit too much and then I spun, and it kind of hurts the confidence even more.

“We know the limitation we have since quite a lot, but with the way I’m driving, I’m just increasing the problem, and that gives me even less confidence with the car.”

Things did not get any better on Sunday as Antonelli struggled to make progress, having started from the pit lane with new engine components. Not only was he 16th at the end, but he was 14 seconds away from 10th place, the lowest points-paying position.

In contrast, Hamilton had also started from the pit lane and found much more joy in his Ferrari, speeding up to finish seventh and 46 seconds up the road from the teenager who replaced him at Mercedes. But instead of celebrating his strong performance, the first thing the seven-time F1 champion did was approach Antonelli in parc ferme.

It is not know what was said between them, but Hamilton could be seen offering consolation to the teenager. At 40 years old, the Brit is more than twice Antonelli’s age and is driving for a direct rival team in Ferrari, but has spent time on several occasions offering his wisdom and experience to the struggling young Italian.

Speaking about the youngster’s struggles after the Belgium race, Hamilton said: “I can’t imagine what it’s like at 18, I can try to imagine what it’s like at 18 to do what he’s been doing. I think he’s been doing fantastic, but to be thrown into the deep end at 18… he didn’t even have his [road] driving licence when he started racing!

“I think it’s a lot on young shoulders, but he’s doing a great job. He’s got a great group of people around him, so I think he’s just got to take it in his stride, which I think he is.

“He’s got Bono [Hamilton’s old Mercedes race engineer Peter Bonnington] by his side – he couldn’t have anyone better.”

George Russell’s Future with Mercedes: Stability Over Speculation

George Russell’s position in Formula 1 has been a hotbed of speculation over the past several months. From talks of his potential replacement to questions about his long-term fit with Mercedes-AMG Petronas, the conversation surrounding the young Brit has been relentless. But with recent reports suggesting a multi-year contract extension worth $40 million, a new chapter might be beginning—one that offers clarity not just for Russell, but for the future of Mercedes as a whole.

Russell’s Value to Mercedes

George Russell joined Mercedes in 2022 after an impressive stint with Williams, and despite some initial struggles, he quickly proved he belonged at the sharp end of the grid. Calm under pressure, technically astute, and fiercely competitive, Russell showcased his capabilities by outperforming seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton at times. His consistency, attitude, and deep integration into Mercedes’ culture made him a natural long-term candidate.

Russell isn’t just a quick driver—he’s a team player, someone who understands the engineering side of the sport and works closely with the team to develop the car. In a post-Hamilton era, Mercedes sees Russell as the anchor around which the next generation of the team can be built.

The Verstappen Factor

The rumors of Max Verstappen moving to Mercedes added fuel to the fire. With Verstappen being one of the most dominant drivers on the grid, speculation surrounding a potential switch was inevitable—especially as uncertainty swirled at Red Bull amid management tensions and regulatory changes.

Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, has been transparent in acknowledging that when a talent like Verstappen becomes available, it’s his duty to explore the option. However, he’s also reiterated that George Russell remains central to Mercedes’ plans. This dual message sent waves through the paddock, and even prompted Russell to publicly state his awareness of what was happening behind the scenes.

But recent updates suggest Verstappen will stay with Red Bull until at least the 2026 season, coinciding with the new engine regulations and Red Bull Powertrains’ first foray as a full works engine supplier. It makes sense: Verstappen is committed to a project he helped build, and it remains to be seen whether Mercedes can produce a more competitive package in the new era.

The $40 Million Signal

The reported $40 million contract extension for Russell is more than just a financial commitment—it’s a statement. Mercedes is doubling down on a driver they see as a future leader, shutting the door, at least temporarily, on speculation of major driver changes.

Russell, for his part, appears reinvigorated. After expressing initial concerns about his future, he has made it clear that he believes in his performance and his role within the team. “I just think it’s in my own hands. So, there’s no point losing sleep about it,” he said after the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa. This confidence, coupled with Mercedes’ willingness to invest in him, paints a clear picture: Russell is here to stay.

The Internal Dynamics

While the contract talks appear to be nearing a resolution, insiders note that the negotiations haven’t been smooth sailing. Conflicts have reportedly arisen over commercial obligations, particularly the number of sponsor appearances Russell is required to make. These disagreements may seem minor on the surface, but they speak to the growing weight Russell carries within the team—not just as a driver, but as a brand ambassador.

Toto Wolff’s negotiation tactics have come under scrutiny too. Former Mercedes driver and 2016 world champion Nico Rosberg called Wolff a “horrible negotiator,” citing his tendency to go quiet during talks, leaving drivers and agents in limbo. It’s clear that Russell’s camp has had to navigate a complex process to get the deal done, further emphasizing the importance of this contract extension.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

With the 2026 regulation overhaul looming, Mercedes is focused on the future—one that includes a brand-new engine formula, new aerodynamic concepts, and a push toward sustainability. It’s a natural inflection point for the team, and continuity in the driver lineup could prove crucial.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes’ rising star from their junior program, is widely tipped to make his Formula 1 debut in the near future. Many believe Mercedes could line up with Russell and Antonelli in 2026, creating a driver pairing that balances experience with youthful promise.

This move would also underscore Mercedes’ philosophy of nurturing talent from within—a strategy that has paid dividends in the past. While Verstappen is a generational talent, pursuing him could disrupt the internal dynamic and send mixed messages to the drivers already embedded in the team’s system.

Verstappen to Mercedes in 2027? Unlikely—but Never Impossible

Although Verstappen is committed to Red Bull through 2028, Formula 1 contracts are often flexible, and circumstances can change. Should Mercedes build a dominant car for the 2026 season and Red Bull falter with its new powertrains, the temptation for Verstappen to consider a switch might grow. But the idea of Mercedes pushing Russell aside after investing in him heavily seems less likely by the day.

There’s also the political aspect to consider. Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler, is reportedly keen on bringing Verstappen into the fold. But the real decision-making power still lies with Wolff and the Mercedes F1 management, who appear more focused on building around Russell and Antonelli.

Final Thoughts: A Foundation for the Future

George Russell’s anticipated contract extension is a signal of intent from Mercedes. Rather than chase marquee names and spark instability, they are putting their trust in a driver who has grown with them, proven himself on track, and embraced the team’s long-term vision.

In doing so, Mercedes is also affirming its broader strategy: build internally, trust the process, and let the results follow. With Russell potentially becoming the face of Mercedes’ new era and Antonelli waiting in the wings, the Brackley-based squad seems poised to tackle the next phase of Formula 1 with a cohesive and committed driver lineup.

Is it enough to return them to championship glory? That remains to be seen—but for the first time in a while, the roadmap looks clear.

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Hungarian Grand Prix 2025: The Stage is Set for Drama at the Hungaroring

The Hungarian Grand Prix is here once again, and as the Formula 1 circus rolls into Budapest, there’s one storyline that always comes to the forefront—Lewis Hamilton and his love affair with the Hungaroring. This technical, twisty, and often sweltering circuit has been the backdrop of some of Hamilton’s greatest triumphs. With eight wins, nine poles, 12 podiums, and over 480 laps led, the numbers don’t lie: Hamilton owns this track.

But 2025 is a different beast.

Hamilton: Momentum, Not Machinery?

After a rollercoaster weekend at Spa, where Lewis Hamilton carved his way from P18 on the grid to P7, having started from the pit lane, he arrives in Hungary with something more potent than raw pace—momentum. His Spa performance was a masterclass in grit and strategy, but Hungary poses a new challenge.

The Mercedes package is still inconsistent. While Hamilton’s historical performance at the Hungaroring may give him confidence, even he admits that “you can’t drive history”—especially when the car underneath you is not up to par with the Red Bulls or the resurgent McLarens. Realistically, a podium would be a strong result. A win? That would take a bit of rain and a lot of magic.

Ferrari: Playing the Long Game—or Just Playing It Safe?

On the other side of the paddock, Ferrari has effectively thrown in the towel for 2025. Their decision to stop development on the SF25 signals a quiet end to a forgettable season. After years of near-misses and technical blunders, the Scuderia is opting to regroup rather than roll the dice.

While this conservative strategy might be wise for 2026, it leaves Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz with little more than pride to fight for. Unless the weather intervenes—or chaos strikes up front—a midpoints finish is likely the ceiling for Maranello this weekend.

Red Bull and Verstappen: Upgrades, Uncertainty, and Unfinished Business

The Red Bull camp enters Hungary with a mix of hope and hesitation. Dr. Helmut Marko confirmed that a second round of upgrades was targeted for Spa and Hungary, but Spa’s torrential downpour prevented a proper evaluation. Hungary offers a chance to see their true performance—if the weather holds.

But Max Verstappen has been openly critical of the RB21, particularly in Friday sessions. Red Bull engineers are working overtime, tweaking setups and chasing the elusive tenths needed to compete with McLaren’s seemingly unstoppable run of form. And historically, Hungary hasn’t been Red Bull’s favorite hunting ground. The high temperatures and slow-speed corners don’t necessarily suit their car.

Still, as Marko put it: “If the upgrades work, we’ll know by Saturday.” The margin for error is razor thin.

McLaren: Quiet Confidence and Strategic Patience

Perhaps the most intriguing contender this weekend is McLaren. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have delivered a string of impressive performances, and the team’s measured approach to upgrades is turning heads. In Silverstone, they tested a new floor exclusively in practice, prioritizing data collection over short-term performance gains.

It’s a move that speaks to McLaren’s newfound maturity. They’re no longer chasing every last drop of pace each weekend—they’re building a title-contending machine brick by brick.

And with the championship picture still fluid, they might just be the ones to beat.

Weather: The Great Equalizer?

No preview of the Hungarian Grand Prix would be complete without discussing the ever-unpredictable weather. The Hungaroring is notorious for sudden shifts—from searing 30°C heat to torrential summer storms in the span of an hour.

Forecasts suggest that Friday and Saturday will be dry and warm, with temperatures around 28°C and minimal rain threat. But Sunday? That’s another story. Current models predict a 35% chance of rain during the race, which has both fans and strategists buzzing.

If the skies open up, the form book goes out the window. Hamilton shines in the wet, and even underperforming teams like Ferrari could sneak into contention. Rain brings chaos, strategy roulette, and often, unforgettable drama.

FIA Under the Microscope: Caution or Overreach?

After the rain-affected chaos at Spa, the FIA’s handling of wet-weather conditions is once again under scrutiny. Verstappen was vocally critical of what he saw as excessive delays. “It wasn’t even raining that hard. A few laps behind the safety car would’ve sorted it,” he said bluntly.

Hamilton echoed those concerns, while George Russell, in his role as GPDA director, stood firmly behind the FIA’s decision, citing safety at high-speed blind corners like Eau Rouge. It’s a debate that’s unlikely to die soon: Where do you draw the line between safety and spectacle?

F1 fans have long embraced the thrill of wet-weather racing—the unpredictability, the skill showcase, and the level playing field it creates. But modern F1’s cautious approach risks neutering what many consider to be the sport’s greatest variable: the weather.

Looking Ahead: A Landmark Weekend

This will be the 40th Hungarian Grand Prix, a race that has evolved from an outlier on the calendar to one of its most cherished fixtures. With a revised practice schedule—two sessions on Friday, FP3 and qualifying on Saturday, and the race set for 3 p.m. local time on Sunday—the build-up is as traditional as it gets.

But that’s about the only thing predictable.

Will Hamilton defy the odds and add a ninth win to his Hungaroring tally? Will McLaren continue their ascent? Can Red Bull convert upgrades into points? Or will Mother Nature throw a curveball that reorders the entire grid?

Final Thoughts: Formula 1’s Essence on Display

What makes the Hungarian Grand Prix special isn’t just Hamilton’s legacy or the tight layout—it’s the unpredictability. From surprise winners to strategic masterstrokes, this race has it all. In a season filled with noise about rule changes, political drama, and budget caps, Hungary reminds us why we fell in love with the sport in the first place.

Rain, risk, rivalry. That’s Formula 1.

As we enter the weekend, keep your eyes on the sky, your mind open to surprises, and your heart ready for the kind of motorsport theatre that only Hungary can deliver.

Because at the Hungaroring, anything can happen—and usually does.

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Wynne Evans has opened up on how the Strictly Come Dancing scandal affected him in a candid post as he calls the system ‘broken’ and takes aim at BBC bosses

Wynne Evans opened up in a candid post

Welsh opera singer Wynne Evans has candidly revealed how “close to the edge” he came following the Strictly scandal. The former Go Compare star, 53, has accused the BBC ’s Strictly Come Dancing of being “fundamentally flawed in its duty of care”.

His comments come almost a year after his appearance on the BBC dance competition. As part of the 20th series, Evans partnered professional dancer Katya Jones.

However, in May, Evans announced he had been dropped by the BBC and would no longer present on BBC Radio Wales after apologising for using “inappropriate language” during the launch of the Strictly tour.

Wynne Evans and Katya Jones during the Strictly Come Dancing tour(Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

And he revealed his thoughts after the turmoil saw him chat to a psychiatrist. In his post on Tuesday, the tenor said: “Tim Davie publicly promised that the BBC would safeguard people who took part in Strictly.

“I thought about that promise while sitting in a psychiatrist’s office near the BBC, staring out of the window at the BBC building, fighting to save my own life. That’s how close I came to the edge.”

He went on: “I’m not writing this as a victim, as I said I will own my mistakes. I’m writing it because the system is broken. Strictly is now fundamentally flawed in its duty of care. It’s allowed to continue because of ratings, while people’s wellbeing is left in tatters.”

Evans also accused the BBC of engaging in a series of “lies and cover‑ups in order to absolve themselves of any wrongdoing” and said this was the “hardest part” for him.

He added: “From my dealings right at the very top with (BBC director-general) Tim Davie, through BBC Wales and the HR department, one feeling has been constant: the only thing they truly care about is protecting themselves and their jobs and Ratings – people come second.

“When I first stepped into the rehearsal room at Strictly, I thought it would be a magical experience. And at the start, it was. But the very first thing I was told was: ‘Don’t trust anyone in this room — not even me.’

“That hit me hard. I’ve always worn my heart on my sleeve, and while I may sometimes sail close to the line, there’s never malice in what I do. What I wasn’t prepared for was the way people will protect their personal and BBC brands, at any cost.”

Elsewhere in his post, Evans claimed in the HR department had “twisted facts, invented files and dates, and created a version of events that simply wasn’t true”.

He said: “Statements were issued in my name that I hadn’t even seen, let alone agreed to. My voice was taken away.”

He had previously shared an apology after the Mail On Sunday reported in January he had aimed a sexual joke at one of the other professional dancers, Janette Manrara.

In May, he told the Sun that the comment made on the show’s tour was not sexual or directed at one of the female cast. He said it was actually a nickname for fellow contestant, EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick.

The BBC declined to comment on Evans’ social media post.

A royal author has shared the emotional reason why one key member of the Royal Family, opted not to attend the funeral of the late Princess Diana, with the royal family’s blessing

A royal author has revealed the ‘thoughtful’ reason why one major royal opted not to attend Princess Diana ’s funeral in 1997. Known as one of the most heartbreaking funerals of the 20th century, world said a heartbreaking farewell to the late Diana at Westminster Abbey, as billions of mourners around the world tuned in to the devastating images of a young Prince William and Prince Harry walking behind their mother’s coffin.

After her sudden death at the age of 36, the young princes grieved Diana in the church alongside their father Prince Charles, Queen Elizabeth and many other members of the royal family. However, there was one member of the Firm who was notably absent from the funeral procession: Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh.

Duchess Sophie didn’t attend Diana’s funeral due to their striking resemblance in the late 1990s(Image: Getty)

At the time of Diana’s funeral, Sophie was still Prince Edward ’s girlfriend, with the pair dating since 1993. During the mid-1990s when both Sophie and Diana came on the royal scene, the women were often pitted against each other and compared, which eventually led to a sour relationship.

Now, a new biography on the Duchess by royal author Sean Smith has revealed the reason why Sophie opted not to attend the funeral. According to the royal expert, Sophie believed it would be “too upsetting for the crowd” to see her attend the ceremony, given the striking physical resemblance between the two royal women at the time of Diana’s death.

Smith wrote: “She had an obvious and reasonable excuse: a friend at the Palace explained, ‘Sophie decided it would be too upsetting for the crowd if she went. She’s well aware that she looks like Princess Diana from a distance and made her decision in a caring and thoughtful way. The Royal Family fully supported’.”

Sophie before her wedding to Prince Edward (Image: Press Association)

Before Princess Diana’s untimely death, it had long been remarked that Sophie was a perfect doppelgänger for Diana, largely due to the fact that both women spent much of the 1990s sporting a short blonde bob hairstyle that was very popular at the time.

Smith said: “One of the reasons Sophie’s impression of Diana was so good is that they bore more than a passing resemblance to one another – a comparison neither woman enjoyed. In retrospect, Sophie having her hair clipped short in a Diana-style blonde bob was probably a mistake.

“Diana had the height and physical presence to carry it off. Fashion expert Alison Jane Reid observed, ‘Sophie looked more appealing when her hair was shoulder length and blunt cut. You could not beat Diana’s hair. It was superb’.”

Sophie had a similar blonde bob hairstyle to Princess Diana (Image: Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images)

At the time, Sophie received much criticism for looking too much like Diana, with royal commentator Judy Wade declaring that Sophie should “get her own look”.

“She chose red dresses that were almost identical to things that Diana wore. She seemed to be copying Diana, and Diana was sort of partly amused and partly irritated by it,” said Judy.

Smith also claimed that Diana was annoyed by the comparison between the two women, and what seemed to be Sophie’s copying of her look. Smith alleged that when she saw Sophie approaching, Diana would say: “Oh look , here comes my double” or “Here comes Miss Goody Two Shoes”.

According to the royal author, the similarities between the two women stopped at their physical appearances, as their personalities were said to clash.

“The two women did not like each other,” Smith said. “The polite description of their relationship, as preferred by the more diplomatic of Sophie’s friends, was to say that there was ‘no love lost’ between them.”

Princess Andre admitted her ‘bank account hates her’ after spending thousands on designer goods after vowing to become a millionaire before she’s 20

Princess Andre has splashed the cash on a huge haul of designer gear (Image: Getty Images for Bauer)

Princess Andre has splashed the cash on a huge haul of designer gear after bagging a mega money reality TV deal. The daughter of Peter Andre and Katie Price, who recently turned 18, is currently filming her fly-on-the-wall show as she promises to give fans a sneak peak into her glamorous life.

The teenager, who also models for fashion brand, Pretty Little Thing, boasts more than 743,000 followers on her Instagram, and has contracts with Superdrug, Studio London, Morphe and Revolution, has vowed to become a ‘millionaire by the age of 20’.

And it looks like she’s getting in some practice for her bumper pay day, after hitting the shops and spending thousands on goods from Louis Vuitton, the Apple store, Charlotte Tilbury makeup and Sephora.

Princess Andre admitted her ‘bank account hates her’ after spending thousands on designer goods(Image: Princess Andre/Instagram)

Sharing snaps of the bags from the boot of her car, Princess admitted: “My bank account hates me” as she posted the snap on Instagram. She also shared a photo of luxury store, Louis Vuitton, where its monogrammed bags start from over £1,000.

Princess made her modelling debut last year with PLT and is preparing to star in her own TV show for the first time.

The influencer is set to make thousands and take after her famous parents by becoming a reality star in her own right.

A source told The Sun: “Princess is very conscious of the fact her mum got famous very early in her career, so Katie is a big inspiration to her. Bagging her own TV show is a huge deal, but producers are keen to stress it is about her and not her famous parents. Both Katie and Peter are likely to feature, though it will likely be more as cameo stars.”

She also shared this snap from the Louis Vuitton store, where bags cost thousands of pounds(Image: Princess Andre/Instagram)

However, Katie recently claimed that she’d been banned from appearing in the show on Princess’ birthday as she appeared to blame her ex, Peter and his management.

Speaking to her sister, Sophie, on their podcast, she said: “Princess is now officially an adult so mummy and Princess can now go out together. If certain people would let her be seen with me.

“Everyone knows she’s doing this documentary – and I’m not in it. Certain people don’t think it’s good for Princess to be seen with me. Certain people that used to look after me.”

“You aren’t on brand Katie. You are too risky Katie that’s why,” her sister retorted. “It’s pathetic. I’m her mother,” Katie snapped.

“It’s so sad,” she lamented. “When certain people who used to look after me are now looking after…” Katie was then cut off by sister Sophie who encouraged her to “save it for another day.”

Journalist Janet Street-Porter has revealed which panellists are safe and which ones are at risk amid huge cost-saving cuts at ITV

Loose Women star Janet Street-Porter reveals which panellists are at risk amid ITV cuts(Image: ITV)

Loose Women favourite Janet Street-Porter has shed light on the looming cuts coming to ITV which are set to impact several daytime shows.

Panellist and journalist Janet, 78, has insisted that none of the ‘older’ Loose Women panellists will be going anywhere, hinting that if jobs are to be cut, it will be the newcomers or younger stars who appear on the ITV show.

“There are no plans to get rid of the older women despite of what some people have said,” Janet insisted. “In fact, the reserve is true. ITV actually put out a statement saying we are the valued members of the show because the audience totally relates to us.”

Janet added: “I think Loose Women has become a programme that is trusted by a lot of women because we talk about the issues that they are concerned about – whether it’s female health, domestic violence, or how politicians don’t really understand working women.

“I think the show has managed to connect women who wouldn’t otherwise have a voice. And it’s delivered with a lot of laughs because we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” she told Bella.

Janet has insisted that the older Loose Women panellists are all safe amid the cuts (Image: (Credit: Amy Brammall / ITV) )

It comes as Loose Women is facing its biggest shake-up in decades, with dramatic changes that have left fans and cast members reeling as insiders fear the ITV favourite could be axed altogether within the next year.

The iconic lunchtime chat show, known for its bold debates and A-list guests, is expected to cut celebrity interviews completely from January as part of sweeping budget cuts across ITV Daytime.

The move comes just months after bosses announced the show would only air for 30 weeks of the year rather than its usual 52, slashing production time nearly in half.

Now, with viewing figures predicted to tumble even further, sources claim Loose Women is “on borrowed time” as ITV pivots its focus to sister shows Lorraine and This Morning.

Janet says the younger and newer panellists will be at risk(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)

Over its 25 year history, Loose Women has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars to the panel – from Naomi Campbell and Janet Jackson to Dame Joan Collins and even former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

But sources claim the show will no longer feature famous faces promoting their projects because there won’t be enough staff to manage guests behind the scenes.

Instead, those high-profile bookings will now reportedly be prioritised for Lorraine and This Morning, leaving Loose Women to rely solely on its panel discussions of the day’s news and lifestyle topics.

“Not having guests is a big blow for both the presenters and viewers at home,” an insider revealed.

Loose Women has already got rid of their studio audience(Image: @jasmineharman/instagram)

“The celebrity interviews are often one of the highlights of the show and bring a unique energy you don’t get on other programmes. It feels like a strange decision to cut them altogether.”

Behind the scenes, the panel – including long-serving stars like Nadia Sawalha, Ruth Langsford and Coleen Nolan – are said to be “deeply upset” by the changes.

Loose Women has already axed its live studio audience, a move that has left both the panel and crew heartbroken.

Nadia Sawalha admitted she was “totally devastated” at the loss of the audience and spoke out in support of her close friend and warm-up artist Lee Peart, who lost his job as a result.

“The audience is so important for the show,” Nadia said. “What a lot of people don’t realise is that we’re self-employed. Every contract is a new contract – I could be let go tomorrow or in five years. It’s brutal.”

She added: “Hundreds of people are going to be made redundant out of the blue. A lot of my friends and colleagues on this show and at ITV have been there for decades, and I can’t tell you how upsetting it was to see people walking around numb with shock and fear about what they were going to do.”

Nadia Sawalha has been left ‘devastated’ by the changes(Image: ITV)

ITV bosses have blamed “insane inflation” and rising costs for the daytime cuts, which have also seen Lorraine halved to 30 minutes and reduced to term-time broadcasts.

In May, ITV confirmed that production of Good Morning Britain will shift to a dedicated team at ITV News, while Loose Women, Lorraine, and This Morning will merge behind-the-scenes teams to save costs.

But industry insiders warn that these measures will likely spell the end for Loose Women.

An ITV spokesperson said: “The Loose Women team is still working on the show and its content for next year.”

On screen, viewers will see huge changes to the daytime schedule. Lorraine is the worst hit. It will run for 30 weeks, not 50 weeks a year, and will be slashed from an hour to 30 minutes each day.

Janet first appeared on Loose Women in 2011(Image: LightRocket via Getty Images)

Loose Women will stay at the same running time but will also be cut to 30 weeks. This Morning will remain the same length and frequency.

The Loose Women panel, including Coleen Nolan, GK Barry and Frankie Bridge, are also expected to see shifts dwindle, especially those who live outside London and charge for travel and hotels. Glam squads are also expected to be axed with stars expected to use in-house make-up.

Meanwhile Good Morning Britain will be extended by 30 minutes, to run from 6am to 9.30am. For the 22 weeks of the year Lorraine is not airing, it will go on until 10am.

Speaking about the huge cuts, an insider recently told The Mirror: “It’s not a case of viewers seeing less of their shows… it’s impossible to see how the high standards will remain the same.

“Some staff believe Loose Women and Lorraine in particular will enter a death spiral… it’s just so sad. Just a handful of people will be working on each of those two programmes which has huge ramifications for how they are going forward.”

Alon Aboutboul – who had roles in both The Dark Knight Rises and Rambo III – has died at the age of 60 after being pulled from the sea in front of horrified tourists

Alon Aboutboul has died at the age of 60 after being pulled from the sea on a popular tourist beach. Alon played Dr Pavel in The Dark Knight Rises, the final film in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy.

He was swimming on HaBonim Beach in Tel Aviv on Tuesday morning when he came out of the sea. He told people he was feeling unwell, according to onlookers, before collapsing.

Paramedics rushed to the scene but were unable to resuscitate him, despite trying for an hour to revive him. The cause of death is currently not known and Alon is survived by his wife and four kids.

Israeli Culture and Sport Minister Miki Zohar posted a tribute, which read: “Last night I watched an interview with him, where he talked about filming a movie he recently participated in, and the passion for the profession that radiated from him was evident even after so many years in the field.

Alon Aboutboul was unable to be resuscitated by paramedics (
Image:
FilmMagic)

“Alon was an Ophir Award and Television Academy Award winner and over the years portrayed a wide range of characters to which he brought depth and emotion, leaving a deep mark on Israeli culture. May his memory be blessed.”

In The Dark Knight Rises, Alon played Dr Pavel, who was a Russian nuclear physicist. Bane – played by Tom Hardy – was after Pavel and managed to kidnap him on a plane. As he prepares to to jump out of the jet with Pavel, he tells the physicist, “Calm down, doctor. Now is not the time for fear. That comes later.”

Aside from the Batman movie, he also starred in a number of Israeli movies and Rambo III. He also appeared in the hit TV show Snowfall, which also stars actor Damson Idris.

Most recently, Alon appeared in The German as Amos Shapira for eight episodes and had a voice role in Pantheon. He also appeared in FBI: International as well as guest roles in Hawaii Five-0, NCIS: Los Angeles and Lost and Found.

HaBonim beach is a popular destination for tourists and part of it is a nature reserve. It has stunned coastal bays and inlets and has more of these dramatic natural features than any other beach in Israel.

The HaBonim area is known for its lovely hikes and stunning beaches and nearby, there is the Tel Dor National Park, which features the remains of an ancient city and harbour. There are various lookout points including over the Tel Dor ruins and also Nahsholim Beach, which extends to the north. There is also a great view from Tulip Hill.

Gary Lineker left the BBC after sharing a post about Zionism, which featured a depiction of a rat – historically an antisemitic insult – which he apologised for

Gary Lineker has opened up about his bombshell BBC exit(Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Gary Lineker has claimed his departure from the BBC was a case of “quit or be quitted”. The former Match Of The Day presenter was asked if his departure from the corporation was “of his own volition, or a case of quit or be quitted?” to which he replied “the latter”, during an interview with The New World, formerly known as The New European.

The 64-year-old left the BBC early following a post about Zionism which featured a depiction of a rat, historically an antisemitic insult, which he apologised for, saying he stands “against all forms of racism”.

The presenter will no longer front BBC coverage of the 2026 World Cup or the FA Cup next season as had been intended, with his last episode of Match Of The Day coming on May 25.

Gary Lineker left the BBC after sharing a post about Zionism(Image: PA)

Speaking about his departure, Lineker said: “That’s what changed after that. I made a mistake and I immediately took it down and apologised, which I thought should have been enough.”

He went on to say that he believed he had complied with the BBC’s impartiality rules as he had looked at the war in Gaza “without a vested interest”.

Lineker added: “I’ve got no skin in the game. I’m not Muslim, I’m not Palestinian, I’m not Israeli, I’m not Jewish. I come from a place of complete impartiality. And then it becomes about truth.

“People talked about me being antisemitic. I’m not anti-any group of people. Any race, any colour. But I am anti the killing of children.”

The former England striker went on to say he did not blame director-general Tim Davie for his exit, adding: “Tim Davie I know and I get on well with. I know how difficult it is for him with what’s going on.

“Do I dislike people at the BBC? Not the people that I know.”

BBC boss speaks out

At the time of Lineker’s departure, Davie said in a statement that the pair “agreed he will step back from further presenting after this season”, after the former presenter “acknowledged the mistake he made”.

Davie added: “Gary has been a defining voice in football coverage for the BBC for over two decades. His passion and knowledge have shaped our sports journalism and earned him the respect of sports fans across the UK and beyond. We want to thank him for the contribution he has made.”

In his own statement, Lineker said that “stepping back now feels like the responsible course of action”.

The ex-Barcelona player went on to say in The New World interview that he has toned down his use of social media following the incident.

He explained: “Social media’s changed a lot. People say to me ‘when did you start having a view on things?’, and I say ‘well I’ve always had a view but social media gave me the platform’.

“Perhaps I wish it hadn’t. I’ve come off X completely. I only use it to promote a podcast now. It’s just become horrible. Nasty.”

Lineker also runs Goalhanger Podcasts which produces podcasts such as The Rest Is Football, The Rest Is History, The Rest Is Politics, and The Rest Is Entertainment, and the Leicester-born star revealed in the interview that his company would soon produce a science podcast.

The Rest Is Football podcast, which Lineker presents alongside former footballers Micah Richards and Alan Shearer, moved from the BBC to British internet sports streaming platform DAZN following Lineker’s BBC exit.